HB 2779 Summary

• Requires kennel operators to implant microchips in all dogs three months of age or older before permit issuance and within 30 days after dogs reach three months of age or arrive at the kennel.

• County enforcement agents may scan dogs to verify microchip compliance and assess penalty fees of up to $50 for each subsequent inspection where microchips are missing.

• Authorizes county enforcement agents to implant microchips at the kennel operator's expense, with fees capped at actual service costs.

• Exempts publicly operated and private charitable nonprofit pounds, humane societies, and animal rescue organizations from microchip requirements.

• Establishes that failure to obtain a kennel permit within 30 days of written notification is a class 2 misdemeanor; county must deny permits to those convicted of animal welfare violations or specific animal cruelty statutes.